Screen time timer
A free screen time timer that loads 30 minutes and shows the time left as a shrinking ring, so a child can see it without reading numbers. Unlike the phone's timer, it sits in plain view on a laptop or TV where the whole family can watch it. Also searched as screen time limit timer, tablet timer, TV timer for kids.
Screen time limits by age
These are the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations. They are a starting point, not a rule for every family.
| Age | Guidance | Timer |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 months | Avoid screens, except video chat with family | Not needed |
| 18 to 24 months | High-quality content only, watched together with a parent | 15 to 20 minutes |
| 2 to 5 years | About 1 hour a day of high-quality programming | 30 minutes, run twice |
| 6 and older | Consistent limits that protect sleep, physical activity and homework | Agree a daily total and split it |
How families use it
- Visible countdown. Press F for fullscreen on the TV or laptop so the child sees the ring emptying and the end is not a surprise.
- Break reminders. Tick Repeat and the 30 minute alarm restarts on its own. Each alarm is a cue to stand, stretch or look out of a window.
- Two-minute warning. When the ring is nearly empty, say "two minutes left" so the transition is calmer. The kids timer page has more tips on ending screen time without tears.
- Adults too. Set a limit for your own evening scrolling and keep the tab open on a second screen.
A simple family media plan
- Pick screen-free times: meals, the hour before bed, and car rides under 20 minutes.
- Agree a daily total and where it happens. The 30 minute timer is a good single block for younger kids.
- Choose what counts. Video chat with grandparents and homework usually do not.
- Run the timer where everyone can see it, and stop when it rings, every time.
Need shorter resets during work or study? The break timer covers the 20-20-20 rule for eyes.
Frequently asked questions
How long should screen time be for a 4 year old?
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests about one hour a day of high-quality programming for ages 2 to 5, ideally watched together. Set this timer to 30 minutes and run it twice.
Can the timer remind us to take breaks?
Yes. Tick Repeat and the 30 minute alarm restarts automatically, so every half hour is a cue to stand up, look away or switch activity.
Does it work on a tablet?
It runs in any browser on iPad, Android tablets and phones. Keep the screen on so the alarm can sound.
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